According to the National Weather Service Melbourne, FL, Orlando residents are waking up to dense fog this morning, which is expected to affect visibility and travel until 9 AM. The advisory, which includes areas of east central Florida, warns of visibility reductions to 1/4 mile or less at times. While the fog is set to lift in the late morning, the warm weather isn't going anywhere yet. With near-record temperatures predicted for today and Thursday, the risk of heat-related illnesses spikes, especially for those sensitive to heat and those not accustomed to such unseasonably warm conditions during the winter.
The forecast has more in store for those planning to enjoy the outdoors or hit the water. "Isolated rain showers are forecast this afternoon and evening," the National Weather Service stated. Later this week, sailors and fishermen should gear up for challenging marine conditions, with poor to hazardous waters expected Friday and Saturday. On land, a cold front pushing through the area will increase the chances of rain and the potential for isolated lightning storms on Thursday.
Despite the thick fog in parts this morning, current temperatures sit comfortably in the mid-50s to upper 60s. As the day progresses, highs in the Orlando metro area are expected to soar to the low to upper 80s, flirting with record highs. Weather enthusiasts note that these temperatures are approaching the 97.5th+ percentile to the maximum for this time of year over east central Florida, a significant deviation from the norm.
The weather discussion also reveals an expected change in winds from the south-southeast, with speeds increasing to 15-20 knots over offshore waters — something for small craft operators to heed with caution. As we move into the weekend, rain chances persist, potentially dampening outdoor plans on Saturday and Sunday, when another cold front is forecast to move into the area.
Aviators will need to navigate around areas of IFR/LIFR conditions, particularly across southern terminals VRB-FPR. "Once the fog/stratus lifts, south to southeast winds will increase to 10-15 KT by 15Z-16Z gusting 18-24KT," the National Weather Service advised. This temporarily impacts visibility but should be resolved by mid-morning as the fog dissipates.
